12 brilliant things to do in North Berwick

Both of North Berwick’s beaches feel blissfully uncrowded, even on sunny days when there are plenty of families and dog-walkers around. With views of Bass Rock, the wide swathe of sand along Milsey Bay is dotted with rockpools. Sit on the wall and dog-watch with an ice cream in hand.

All that salt-laced sea air making your stomach rumble? The freshest catches land straight from the nippy waters of the Firth and on to the plates of local restaurants, like Lobster Shack, which serves ethically caught shellfish, and North Berwick Fry, a local institution known for its ace fish and chips. For something extra-special, head to minimalist coffeehouse Drift, which has a spectacular clifftop view. Their daily brunch and light lunch menu focuses on fresh, seasonal Scottish produce.

Similar to Edinburgh’s Arthur’s Seat, North Berwick Law pokes up behind the town like a pointy hat. This grass-covered conical hill has volcanic origins and is the tallest spot around. Hike the heart-pumping, zig-zagging path to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with pano-worthy views framed by a giant fibreglass replica of a whale’s jawbone. Because, why not?

Drive ten minutes east and you’ll find Tantallon Castle perched on the edge of the cliff. Roam the battlements and descend to the dungeons. Go further along the coast to Seacliff for views looking back at the ruined fortress. Also ten minutes from North Berwick is Archerfield Walled Garden, an excellent place for the whole family to relax, unwind and recharge. Walk around the beautiful grounds and you’ll come across the utterly delightful eighteenth-century walled garden, a magical fairy trail for the little ones, a food market with essentials and artisan favourites, and a well-stocked garden shop.

Learn about puffins, razorbills and more at the Scottish Seabird Centre before taking a boat to see Bass Rock’s inhabitants up close. At the end of winter, so many birds flock to the volcanic island – home to the largest colony of northern gannets in the world – that they turn it completely white.

Stop in nearby Gullane at the Bonnie Badger, an ivy-clad country bolthole on the outside, with a modern Scottish-meets-Scandi interior. It’s owned by chef Tom Kitchin, a man who’s no stranger to a Michelin star, so no surprise that the food dished up in the converted-stables restaurant is the highlight of a stay here. The menu evolves with the seasons, and a map in the lobby shows how just how local their produce is. Walk off dinner (and breakfast and afternoon tea) along Gullane Bay, a quiet smile of sand near the hotel. Gullane, East Lothian, Scotland. From £175 a night.